Several years ago, after returning from my evening walk, I

composed these words for my journal: ‘I saw a tree today, straight and tall, rooted in the clay. Its branches spread beneath the sky, praising God – and so shall I.’ When I walk that path, I often think or recite these words.

Recently, I had cataract surgery on both my eyes. The change to my vision had been gradual, and I had not realised how blurred it had become. Now I am once again able to see the magnificent beauty of the tree that inspired me to write those words.

Reflecting on this change, I realised that in the same way that my vision gradually changed, my spiritual vision can also become blurred. Just as I finally decided to have my eyes examined and successfully treated, so too does my spiritual vision need continued treatment. With the Holy Spirit’s guidance and as I join with fellow believers in worship, prayer and Bible study, my spiritual vision will stay focused on God’s love and grace, and I will clearly see the redeeming love of Christ.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for your gift of Christ Jesus and for the Holy Spirit who lives within us. Amen